Mbappé Urged to Stay Strong Amid National Team Uncertainty
French football star Kylian Mbappé has received a message of encouragement from Noël Le Graët, the former president of the French Football Federation (FFF), amid growing uncertainty surrounding his role with the French national team.
The Real Madrid striker, who has been left out of France’s last four UEFA Nations League matches, is reportedly facing speculation over losing the captain’s armband. However, Le Graët recently met with Mbappé in Guingamp, where he offered words of inspiration to the 2018 World Cup winner.
Le Graët’s Message to Mbappé
Speaking to Le Parisien, Le Graët revealed that he told Mbappé:
“Do not give up on Les Bleus.”
This meeting came just before Real Madrid’s Champions League clash against Stade Brestois 29 on Wednesday. The two also took a picture together, signaling a possible reconciliation between them after past tensions.
A History of Tension Between Mbappé & Le Graët
Mbappé and Le Graët’s relationship was strained after controversial remarks made by the former FFF president about Zinedine Zidane in early 2023. When asked about the possibility of Zidane taking over as France’s head coach, Le Graët dismissed it, saying:
“I wouldn’t even take his call.”
Mbappé was quick to publicly criticize Le Graët, calling his comments disrespectful towards Zidane. Shortly after, Le Graët resigned as FFF president in February 2023 amid allegations of sexual harassment involving a female football agent.
Zidane: The Next France Manager?
With Didier Deschamps currently under scrutiny, Zidane is widely considered the frontrunner to take over as France’s head coach after the 2026 World Cup.
Earlier this season, Zidane reportedly spoke with Mbappé when the forward was struggling to settle into his first season at Real Madrid. Since then, Mbappé has returned to top form, scoring eight goals in his last seven competitive matches, and helping Madrid regain first place in La Liga, four points ahead of Atlético Madrid.
What’s Next for Mbappé & France?
The French national team will be back in action in March 2025, facing Croatia in a two-leg UEFA Nations League quarter-final. Until then, Mbappé will focus on continuing his impressive form for Real Madrid, as speculation over his international future continues to grow.
Will Mbappé retain his captaincy, or is a major shake-up coming for Les Bleus? Stay tuned for updates! ⚽🔥
